I flipped open the other envelope and pulled out several folded sheets of paper. A letter—and written in my mom’s handwriting.
Savannah –
If you’re reading this, then something has happened to us. I’m so sorry, honey. We always wanted you to have a “normal” life, but sometimes, the fates have other plans. You were the best thing your father and I ever did, and we will always love you.
Trust your aunt Laurel. She sacrificed more for us than anyone. She will explain everything. Just know that what we did, we did to protect you. You might be angry, but one day, I hope you’ll understand what it was all for.
Don’t let anyone push you around. You’ve always been stronger than you realize, and though the fates may have set the course for things to come, you will always have the power to fashion your own path. You’re an artist, after all.
You have family in Silverton, from my side. When you’re ready, I know your grandfather and cousins would love to meet you. He was so excited when you were born, and his heart is like yours. Go to him and reconnect with your roots.
Take care, honey. Love you to the moon and back.
Mom
My eyes blurred, and I swallowed hard as I unfolded the other sheet. On it was my grandfather’s address in Silverton, Colorado.
Jaxson gently rubbed my back. “I’m so sorry, Savy.”
I nodded, and a tear slipped free. “What would have happened if I’d never come to Magic Side? If I’d just kept on driving? I’d never have any of this. Not Laurel. Not this letter. Not my family. Not you.”
“I would always have found you.” He pulled me to his chest, and like a dam breaking, my tears finally fell. He held me tight and pressed his lips to my forehead. “You’re right where you belong, where you’re loved. And safe.”
His words seemed to crack my chest further open, and by the time I was finished crying, Jaxson’s shirt was damp. I wiped my eyes and nose, feeling a rush of embarrassment. “Sorry. There’s just so much to deal with, so much of the time.”
“You’ve got nothing to be sorry about. I understand.”
I dried the last of my tears with my wrist. “Let’s get out of here.”
“Where do you want to go?”
“I don’t care. Somewhere that’s not a wall of boxes. Somewhere quiet, somewhere I can breathe without a demon looking over my shoulder.”
He nodded. “I know just the place.”